RTP introduces new TPEs for medical uses

The 6042 MD series have a Shore A hardness range from 40 to 70, the 6003 MD series a Shore A hardness range from 45 to 75. They are formulated to bond with ABS, PC, PC alloys, PBT, rigid TPU, or co-polyester substrates. According to the company a statement of biocompatibility is available for these compounds. The materials are gamma and EtO sterilisable.

"Using TPEs is a great way to enhance the design and functionality of medical devices by providing better grip or non-skid surfaces, improving tactile feel and ergonomics, or delivering aesthetics for corporate branding and increased consumer appeal," said Paul Killian, RTP Company's Business Manager – TPE Products. "The ability to bond TPEs to engineering grade thermoplastic substrates using multi-shot overmoulding processing also reduces assembly time and can reduce manufacturing costs."

Naturally opaque, the products are fully colourable with the company's biocompatible colour products which provide pre-tested ISO 10993 compliance in precoloured resins and colour masterbatches. Additionally, these products are designated as change controlled formulas to ensure there is no modification to ingredients without customer authorization.

Key applications include surgical tools, fixation devices, and positioners that require tactile feel and slip resistance; drug delivery systems such as transdermal patches, injection pens, and inhaler pumps; and intravenous and catheter systems.